Santa Cruz and the time needed to launch a carrier strike

Japanese reconnaissance reported Hornet's task force at about 0700, with some uncertainty over the precise minute. Although the Americans had located the Japanese carriers first, the Japanese launched their strike sooner. Their aircraft were away by about 0740, roughly 40 minutes after the contact report. Preparing an attack involved people and practical delays that could accumulate beyond an ideal launch timetable. Two American Dauntless scout aircraft meanwhile attacked Zuihō and damaged its flight deck enough to prevent aircraft from landing. Early scouting success and the ability to launch promptly were separate advantages in the opening exchange.